How to Keep Cozy (Without Looking Sloppy) at Work

Source: How to Keep Cozy (Without Looking Sloppy) at Work

When the real cold weather starts, it's tempting to ditch any sort of dress code and head to work wrapped up in a sleeping bag. Thankfully, common sense (and a little vanity) brings us to our senses; but since Winter definitely means bundling up, even for the office, we're helping you to do it as stylishly as possible. No, a corporate look isn't exactly cozy, but there are ways to warm up the suit look (aside from following Anna Dello Russo's lead and slapping a stick-on heating pack under our clothes) with some creative layering. For our favorite ways to do just that - plus a few key pieces - read on:

  • The surest way to stay warm and polished is all about the fabrics you choose. Winter calls for heavier finishes, like velvet, corduroy, and wool. While you wouldn't wear a wool suit in August, you also shouldn't wear your linen jackets in November. Trade your breezy fabrications for something more cozy, like these wool trousers or this velvet blazer.

  • Layers don't have to be bulky or oversize to get the job done. A knit layer as the base of your look, like a turtleneck sweater, is a great starting place and will insulate against the chill better than any button-down can. Add it underneath a suit jacket to top off your trousers, or even layer it under your classic sheath dress to stay polished with a cozy twist.


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  • Invest in polished outerwear. You might be able to get away with your college-day fleeces on weekends, but adding one to your 9-to-5 look distracts from any otherwise-sophisticated statement you're making.

  • If your job requires heels or otherwise dressier footwear, then stick to something with a little more substance for those chillier days (read: no fancy footwear here). It sounds gratuitous, maybe, but something with a lug sole that can handle the elements is obviously going to keep you more protected than a ballet flat or a loafer. Look to a knee-high boot or leather ankle boot for more coverage on your tootsies; you'll thank us when you're not weaving around frozen puddles. And if you think that you can't pull off boots with a pencil skirt, then let this be your reminder of otherwise.

  • No matter what your office dress code expectations may be, warm, textural accessories are always a safe bet. Look to details like sleek leather gloves, a fur collar, or a cable-knit scarf to cover up and heat up a blouse or a dress. Likewise, upgrade your legwear with thick, wool or knit tights (not those sheer panty hose) underneath your dresses and skirts. It's a small change that will have a major impact on your comfort level.



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